An All Natural Wreath with Copper Writing

I decided to undertake a pretty big DIY project for our Christmas decor this year; a homemade wreath for our front door! I'd never made a wreath from scratch before, but knew it would be a fun project for all the leftover trimmings from our tree. After seeing this pin on Pinterest I knew immediately that I wanted to include ces't noel on the wreath, and decided copper writing would add a little sparkle to otherwise all natural wreath. Here's how I did it:

Step 1: Gather your materials. Evergreen clippings, holly berries, floral wire, wire cutters, utility knife, copper wire, paper, marker. I used the clippings from our Christmas tree to make the wreath, and holly berries from a neighbors holly tree to accent it.
Step 2: Trim your clippings into narrow branches, using the utility knife when needed. Make sure there aren't any dangling branches.
Step 3: over lap the top of one trimming over the bottom of another, and using the floral wire, tightly wrap the branches together.
Step 4: Attach several lengths of trimming, until you have enough to create your desired wreath size when looped together.

Step 5: Grab the ends of your evergreen bough to create a loop. Holding the two ends together, wrap floral wire around the top branches to create the basic wreath shape.
Step 6: You'll notice that the top half of the wreath looks a little fuller than the bottom. You'll now use the extra trimmings to fill out the wreath.
Step 7: Grab one of your loose trimmings, covering up any exposed branches, and attach with the floral wire. Work your way around the wreath, attaching trimmings where needed.
Step 8: Now that your wreath is filled out create a loop with your floral wire and attach it to the top of the wreath for hanging.

Step 9: Step back and admire your handy work. You'll be adding the embellishments now.
10: Using a pen or marker draw out what you want to write with the copper wire on a large piece of paper. This will help you visualize how to spell out the words with the wire.
11. Grab the wire and carefully, slowly, start spelling out your wording. I will say that this was the most difficult part of the project; the copper wire is pretty stiff, and you may need additional tools to help you loop the letters, and hold portions in place. My arms got a bit of a workout, but the end result is so worth it. Be patient.
12. Grab the holly and berries and tuck them in around the wreath to finish the festive look.

This wreath really creates a warm and welcoming doorway into our home this holiday season. I don't think I'll ever buy another wreath again. I'll be making all of ours from now on, thank-you-very-much. Have you added any natural elements into your holiday decor this year? big kiss, bekuh

PS- Don't forget to enter the Dot & Army giveaway going on now!